Tis’ the time of year we love…
Amidst our young professional schedules packed with Christmas parties, shopping and impromptu cocktails (and a lot of holiday indulgence in general), it’s the authenticity offered by Vancouver’s live theatres that truly helps kick our Christmas spirits into high gear.
There’s nothing quite like getting dressed up, grabbing a pair of tickets at the box office and ducking into a darkened theatre to take in one of the quintessential classics. We love the sense of anticipation and extra special reason to enjoy a night out on the town, especially with holiday hits such as White Christmas and The Nutcracker all but taking over the stages around town. We’ve sourced out some notable hits you don’t want to miss this month below.
The Christmas Carol Project (December 16 to 18 at 8pm)
Take in this uniquely enchanting rendition (in musical format) of the classic Dickens’ tale at The Cultch. The Christmas Carol Project is a fantastic blend of the classic literature fused with contemporary folk tunes and comes courtesy of Juno-nominated Brass Monkey Productions (an Edmonton-based troupe of folk musicians who have created a collection of songs written from the perspectives of characters in this Christmas tale). For more information or to score tickets click here.
White Christmas (December, nightly)
For those YPs who have guests in town over the holidays and are either looking for a few fun things to do with the relatives (or in need of an escape from the chaos), head to the Stanley Theatre (2750 Granville) and catch a performance of this holiday classic on stage. Shows happen nightly and offer the perfect excuse to head out to explore the festively decorated South Granville neighbourhood. Grab a bite pre-show, squeeze in some shopping and take in this old-fashioned Christmas musical that’s a treat to the senses and pays homage to the original film. For tickets, click here.
The Santaland Diaries: True Confessions of an Elf (December 5 to 29th)
Looking for some truly hilarious and original theatre? Look no further than this merry tale brought to life on stage by humourist David Sedaris and his elfish main squeeze. Get to know what truly goes on within the mind of an elf employed over the holidays at Macy’s Santaland. You’ll be notably laughing to the edge of your seat as Sedaris chronicles the seasonal lamenting of his character who recounts the less-than-merry details that surround this oftentimes stressful season. Santaland takes over the Revue Stage daily starting tomorrow.
The Nutcracker: performed by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (December 14-16)
Another holiday classic is back on stage for a limited weekend run and promises to delight audiences with a uniquely Canadian take on a Christmas tradition. Expect the same elaborate costuming, choreography and music – with Canadian twists added throughout the show (hint: hockey fans will definitely be amused). This latest version of Nutcracker features iconic imagery of the Great White North and a slightly different, turn-of-the-century setting that will surprise. For more information on this special two-day performance happening at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, and to get tickets, click here.
The Wizard of Oz (December 8 to January 6th)
Not your traditional holiday fodder, but a classic tale nonetheless, we’re notably keen to check it out on stage. Leave Vancouver’s rainy days behind and head to Kansas as Dorothy Gale is whisked away from her farm by a storm – only to find herself in the land of Oz where (mis)adventures ensue. Get acquainted with the Emerald City, follow the Yellow Brick Road and meet her trio of friends: Tinman, Scarecrow and Cowardly Lion. Oz takes over The Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island. Click here to learn more and buy tickets.
Photo: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, courtesy Vancouver Opera Guild